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Menlo Park prepares to go out to bid on pool contract

Perhaps learning from history, the city of Menlo Park released a staff report Aug. 11 on a contract renewal for the Burgess swimming pools almost two weeks in advance of the next City Council meeting.

The council voted four years ago to hand over operation of the then brand-new Burgess facility to Team Sheeper, a private contractor, without charging rent or putting the contract out to bid. The current lease expires in May 2011.

Community Services Director Cherise Brandell said the city is releasing the documents early "to ensure a transparent and contemplative process." The council will consider the request for proposals at its next meeting on Aug. 24, with an anticipated deadline to receive proposals in October.

Prior to the deadline, the staff report states, the city intends to mail a survey to pool users, seeking input about operating hours, services and fees.